Recent studies have demonstrated that fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21), a liver derived protein, is able to increase glucose uptake, as well as lower plasma triglyceride levels in an insulin-independent manner. FGF-21 suppresses glucagon release, thereby increasing insulin sensitivity, and reduces the amount of insulin production by pancreatic b-cells. Unlike insulin, which works in a rapid, hormone-like manner, FGF-21 activity requires several hours, indicating changes in gene expression. No significant weight gain was observed when FGF-21 was injected into animals, and mice that had been genetically engineered to overexpress FGF-21 weighed less and had less adipose tissue than the normal controls.
Although considerable progress has been made in the understanding of the pathobiology of type 2 diabetes, as well in the development of new compounds for the treatment of diabetic patients, this disease remains a major global health concern. The insulin-independent activities of FGF-21, as well as the absence of the weight gain effects of insulin, thiazolidinediones and other anti-diabetic drugs, distinguish it from current insulin-sensitizing drugs, making it a promising therapeutic.
This Fibroblast Growth Factor 21, Rat/Mouse BioAssay™ ELISA Kit (FGF-21) is used to measure and quantify FGF-21 levels in Metabolism, Inflammation and Immunology research.
Sensitivity:49.4 pg/mL when using 10uL Mouse or 20uL Rat sample size.
Precision:Intra-assay: ≤ 10%Inter-assay: ≤ 8%
Specificity:Cross-reactivity to Human FGF-21 is 39%. No significant cross-reactivity to the cytokines and metabolic hormones tested was observed.
Storage and Stability:Store Plate at 4°C. Store other components at -20°C. Stable for 6 months after receipt. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial prior to removing the cap.
